They say you should never discuss religion or politics at a dinner party, but money talk seems to cause even more discomfort among strangers and friends, alike. According to a SunTrust Bank survey, finances are the leading cause of stress in a relationship. Let’s look at three reasons why finances can cause so much friction and how to address them through healthy communication.

It is estimated that 90% of women will be in charge of their finances at some point in their lifetimes. Becoming a widow or being divorced are two common ways this happens. Women may become their own Chief Financial Officer suddenly and without notice. These circumstances require women to manage their financial affairs on their own, possibly at a time when they are experiencing a decrease in income and going through a period of mental and emotional turmoil.

Like a giant wave crashing over a surfer, life events can upend and disorient even strong and capable people. Fear can mix with grief resulting in panic and exhaustion. Principles used in solution-oriented consulting can help chart a path and establish hope in hard times. A key assumption in the solution-oriented consultation approach is that change is constant everywhere all the time.

If you and your spouse are considering, or are in the process of divorce, and one or both of you has a corporate benefits or civil service, 401(k) savings and/or pension plan, know that all pensions are not created equal. And that fact is extremely important to realize as you proceed, hopefully, toward an equitable division of the marital estate.

Couples facing divorce should familiarize themselves with the Affordable Care Act (ACA). It is likely that at least one or possibly both of the parties will face the prospect of finding healthcare insurance for themselves and/or their children after the divorce.

No one wants to think about being old and needing constant assistance. No one wants to see their assets depleted by the cost of in-home care or nursing care that lasts for several years. Nor do most people wish to go through divorce.

There is good news for the lower-earning spouse who is worried about receiving her share of the 401k or pension. Thanks to ERISA, special rules exist and eliminate an ex-spouse from standing in the way of receipt.

You made it through the negotiations and are ready to move on in your life. As part of the settlement you are to receive a portion of your spouse’s pension (defined benefit plan). You are presented with a qualified domestic relations order (QDRO) to review. How do you know it is done correctly?

Some of us don’t have the option of buying a home during the process of divorce. Financial constraints prevent us from doing so. But, for the fortunate few who have the resources and can afford the down payment, mortgage payments, property taxes and upkeep, careful thought should be given to the decision.

Texas divides marital property as community property. This means any property owned by either spouse during the marriage is community property between the spouses. The court also divides marital debt at this time and ownership is recognized the same way. However, property that is owned by either spouse before the marriage is considered separate property. In a case involving children, the Texas divorce court often divides the property unequally. An equal division of the community property is not required by the Texas divorce laws, were as some other community property states adhere more to the 50-50 split rule.

The information contained on this page is not to be considered legal advice. This website is not a substitute for a lawyer and a lawyer should always be consulted in regards to any legal matters. Divorce Source, Inc. is also not a referral service and does not endorse or recommend any third party individuals, companies, and/or services. Divorce Source, Inc. has made no judgment as to the qualifications, expertise or credentials of any participating professionals. Read our Terms & Conditions.